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Why Young and Healthy Individuals in Reno Should Consider Health Insurance

In the bustling city of Reno, young professionals and adults often juggle numerous priorities, from career growth to personal development. However, one aspect that frequently gets overlooked is health insurance. Many young and healthy individuals question the necessity of health insurance, especially when medical issues seem like a distant concern. But the reality is, health can be unpredictable, and the cost of medical care is consistently rising. Investing in health insurance early not only serves as a financial safety net but also offers comprehensive coverage with lower premiums.

Cost-Effectiveness of Early Health Insurance Investment

Securing Lower Premiums and Better Terms

Starting your health insurance journey early in life, particularly in your 20s and 30s, can be significantly cost-effective. Insurance companies often offer lower premiums to younger, healthier individuals as they are viewed as lower risk compared to older clients. By locking in these advantageous rates, you not only save money in the short term but also secure favorable terms that can benefit you in the long run.

Long-term Savings and Financial Planning

Investing in health insurance at a younger age is not just about immediate benefits. It's an integral part of sound financial planning. By securing lower rates now, you're setting up a foundation for financial stability. Health insurance can protect you from unexpected medical expenses that can derail your financial goals, ensuring that your savings and investment plans remain on track.

Benefits of Coverage During Medical Emergencies

Protection Against the Unforeseen

No one can predict when a medical emergency will strike. Even if you're the epitome of health right now, accidents and sudden illnesses are realities of life. Having health insurance in place means you're prepared for these unforeseen events. It's not just about having a backup plan; it's about ensuring that you can receive the best possible care without the stress of overwhelming expenses.

Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved Ones

Knowing that you're covered in case of emergencies brings peace of mind not just to you, but also to your loved ones. Your family and friends can rest easy knowing that your health and finances are protected, allowing them to focus on supporting you through recovery rather than worrying about medical bills.

The Long-term Health and Financial Benefits of Preventive Care

Regular Check-ups and Early Detection

One of the often-overlooked benefits of health insurance is access to preventive care. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations are crucial for maintaining good health and early detection of potential health issues. With health insurance, these preventive measures are often covered, encouraging you to take proactive steps in managing your health.

Investing in Your Future Health

By taking advantage of preventive care, you're not just taking care of your current health; you're investing in your future well-being. Regular health monitoring can lead to early intervention, lessening the severity of potential health issues and reducing long-term healthcare costs.

Incorporating Health Insurance into Your Financial Strategy

Building a Comprehensive Financial Safety Net

Health insurance is more than just a medical necessity; it's a crucial component of a comprehensive financial strategy. It protects you from the risk of incurring debt due to unexpected medical expenses, ensuring that your financial goals and lifestyle are not compromised.

The Role of Health Insurance in Financial Peace of Mind

Including health insurance in your financial planning provides a sense of security, knowing that you're prepared for life's uncertainties. It's an investment in your peace of mind, safeguarding your health and financial future.

Taking the Next Steps with Nevada Silver

As a young adult or professional in Reno, taking control of your health and financial future is crucial. Nevada Silver offers a range of health insurance plans tailored to meet your needs and lifestyle. We encourage you to explore these options, get a quote, or contact an agent for personalized consultation. Investing in health insurance is not just a prudent decision for today; it's a step towards securing your future.

In conclusion, health insurance is a smart investment for young and healthy individuals in Reno, offering cost-effectiveness, long-term benefits, and peace of mind. Don't wait until a medical emergency strikes; take control of your health and financial future today with Nevada Silver.

Reno health insurance is a complex yet crucial aspect of our lives, and understanding its fundamental concepts can help you make more informed decisions about your healthcare coverage. In this blog post, we'll dive into the basics of health insurance, shedding light on key terms like premiums, deductibles, and co-payments.

1. Premiums: Your Monthly Payment

Think of your Reno health insurance premium as your monthly subscription fee. It's the amount you pay to your insurance company to keep your policy active, regardless of whether you use medical services during that month or not. Premiums can vary widely depending on the type of plan you have and the level of coverage it provides.

 

 

For instance, if you have an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, your premium may be partially or fully paid by your employer. If you're self-employed or purchasing an individual plan, you'll be responsible for the entire premium. In some cases, you may be eligible for government subsidies to help offset the cost of your premiums.

2. Deductibles: Your Initial Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Deductibles are the amount you need to pay out of your own pocket before your Reno NV insurance coverage kicks in. It's like a financial threshold you must cross before your insurance provider begins to share the costs of your medical bills.

For example, if your health insurance plan has a $1,000 deductible, you'll need to pay the first $1,000 of covered medical expenses each year. After you've met your deductible, your Reno NV insurance company will typically start covering a portion of your healthcare costs, with you responsible for coinsurance or copayments.

3. Co-payments and Coinsurance: Sharing the Cost

Copayments and coinsurance represent your share of the costs for covered medical services after you've met your deductible. They are often used interchangeably, but there's a subtle difference:

Choosing the Right Plan for You

Understanding these basic health insurance terms is essential for selecting the right plan that meets your needs and budget. Here are a few tips to consider:

In summary, Reno health insurance is a financial safety net that helps protect you from high medical costs. By understanding the basics of premiums, deductibles, co-payments, and co-insurance, you can make more informed decisions when selecting a plan. Take your time to assess your healthcare needs, budget, and provider preferences to ensure you choose the plan that's the best fit for you. If you have questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to a licensed insurance professional who can guide you through the process.

David Moncuse is an esteemed professional with an extensive background in the insurance industry, and he is proud to join the Nevada Silver team as their newest member. With close to 20 years of experience, David has acquired a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field, having worked in three different states throughout his career. He began his insurance journey in California, where he gained valuable insights and honed his skills. Seeking new opportunities and challenges, David then moved to North Carolina, further expanding his understanding of the industry. Now, he has settled in Nevada and is excited to embark on this new chapter as part of the Nevada Silver family.

Outside of work, David's world revolves around his cherished family. Spending quality time with his wife and two boys, aged 9 and 6, is his utmost priority. They enjoy exploring the outdoors together through activities such as hiking and fishing, fostering a love for nature and adventure. Additionally, bonding over games brings them closer and allows them to create lasting memories as a family.

David Moncuse's passion for his profession, coupled with his dedication to his loved ones, shapes him into a compassionate and well-rounded individual. He looks forward to serving the Nevada Silver community and embarking on this new adventure with enthusiasm, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of his clients.

May Is Disability Insurance Awareness Month: Learn About Your Insurance Options

May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month and to promote the importance of disability insurance, we’re arming everyone we can with valuable information to prepare them for setting up their own policy. While you may be thinking that your home or retirement plan is your biggest asset, you’d be mistaken. Actually, your lifetime earning potential is your greatest asset as it ensures continuous income.

 

Disability insurance protects your income, the asset on which you rely to live. It also provides much-needed reassurance and peace of mind that you won’t lose that income in the event that you become ill or disabled. The Nevada Silver Life & Health insurance Agents at NV Silver are here to help you understand your insurance options to choose the right plan. Learn more with us below! 

Choosing Disability Health Insurance in Nevada

To determine a disability insurance policy that’s right for you, we recommend following the 3-Step Approach:

 

  1. Understand the Two Disability Insurance Plans to Choose From - Noncancelable and Guaranteed Renewable or Guaranteed Renewable disability insurance plans are available. With the Noncancelable plan, the benefits and riders of the policy cannot be changed prior to the policy’s maturity date. Premiums will also not be increased at any time. The Guaranteed Renewable plan does not maintain premium costs meaning they may be increased at any time. 
  2. Define the Disabilities Covered by the Policy - You will also need to understand what instances the policies cover and how they are defined by the policy.
  3. Add Riders to the Policy - Lastly, you’ll add riders to the policy to enhance and customize your coverage. 

 

With this 3-Step approach and the help of our agency in Reno, you won’t have to worry about your coverage or its benefits!

What’s Stopping You From Getting Disability Insurance? 

Just 14% of Americans claimed to have disability insurance in 2021, yet, 45% of Americans acknowledge that their families would struggle financially if a primary wage earner was unable to earn income due to an illness or disability. So, what are the reasons they have for not having disability coverage? The three most common reasons are that disability insurance is too expensive, families prioritize other financial obligations, and many people just don’t feel like they need it. 

 

Reno health insurance professionals are able to find disability insurance that is affordable and ensures the most reliable coverage in the event that you become ill or disabled. No one expects a circumstance such as these to cost them their entire income, but disability insurance provides the best backup plan to make certain that your family has consistent funds coming in.  

2022 Changes May Erase Your Medical Debt 

Equifax, Experion, and TransUnion, the 3 major national credit reporting agencies, announced significant changes regarding medical debt reporting. Effective July 1, 2022, nearly 70% of medical collection debt will be erased from consumer credit reports. This means that substantially high medical bills may no longer present themselves on credit reports among the top credit reporting agencies posing a huge benefit to consumers. 

 

Specifically, the changes include the following conditions:

 

Meet with a Reno Health Insurance Agent

If you’re interested in learning more about disability insurance or general health insurance in Nevada, you’ve come to the right place. Our health insurance experts will help you find the plan that best fits your needs. Connect with us today!

Are you new to Nevada? While there are many benefits of moving from California to Nevada, NV Silver wants to remind senior residents of a new health insurance law they will find useful. This advantage is known as the Nevada birthday rule. 

You can think of this law as a special birthday gift from the state of Nevada. While Medicare providers are obligated to inform you of open enrollment for the birthday rule, reaching out to an insurance broker can help you make a quick and informed decision in the future.

What is the Medicare Birthday Rule in Nevada? 

The birthday rule is an insurance law that allows seniors with Medicare (also known as Medigap) to lower their insurance rates and save money on prescriptions each year. Most importantly, you are not required to answer health questions that could harm your eligibility or higher your rate. Just keep in mind that your replacement plan should offer equal or lesser benefits for you to qualify. 

nevada insurance laws

Why is the Birthday Rule for Insurance Important? 

All Medicare Supplement plans experience at least one rate increase every year. This Nevada health insurance law allows you to shop for plans in your budget around your birthday. Now you can switch your coverage to receive the lowest rate even if your health status has changed. Just follow the requirements for switching plans, and you are guaranteed to be accepted. 

*Keep in mind: You have to already have Medicare Supplement, or Medigap to use the birthday rule. 

When can I Change My Medicare benefits? 

Most people are under the impression that they can only change their Medicare Supplement benefits during the enrollment period, but this isn’t true. Instead, you can switch your plan anytime, but be ready to answer a series of health questions to qualify. Avoiding these questions is what makes the birthday rule so special. Now you can switch plans and never worry about being disqualified from receiving coverage for new health concerns. 

One thing to keep in mind is that you can only use the birthday rule around your birthday. You are qualified to switch providers or plans beginning on the first day of your birthday month. The window for enrolling and avoiding new questions lasts 60 days, so you should act fast. Talking with a licensed insurance broker helps you streamline the process and guarantee you receive the best coverage and price possible. 

reno life insurance

NV Silver Is Here To Help

The birthday rule is the best way for you to receive affordable health coverage all year long. Contact us now or visit our site to see how we can help you understand and use the birthday rule to your advantage. NV Silver has an insurance broker in Reno ready to work closely with you and guide you through the process. 

Throughout your career, you’ve been paying into Medicare through payroll withholdings. However, people approaching the age of 65 might think medicare comes free. That is not the case.

In reality, Medicare has a number of expenses.That includes copays, premiums and certain deductibles. If you’re a current high earner, you might have to pay more for premiums and there’s no out-of-pocket maximum.

Medicare in Nevada

Nevada has more than 3 million residents. Recent data shows that 445,990 of those people are enrolled in Medicare across the state of Nevada. 

Nevada Medicare coverage includes Original Medicare Parts A & B, Medicare Advantage (Part C), prescription drug coverage (Part D) and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap).

A big question is, which plan is right for you? That’s where we can help. As insurance brokers located in Reno, our clients have asked us many times which plan is right for them. 

We’ll walk you through each option and also give you resources to apply:

Original Medicare Parts A & B 

Part A covers care at hospitals, nursing homes, or hospice. This option does not have a premium as long as you have paid taxes into Medicare for more than 40 fiscal quarters.

Part B covers regular care. Such as preventive medicine and doctor visits. Most Part B premiums start at roughly $130 dollars per month. That number can vary based on your earning. In addition to the annual deductible, you pay 20% of the costs for doctor’s visits and other outpatient care. Original Medicare covers the other 80 percent.

Part C

If you need more coverage than what comes with Parts A & B, then you can choose a Medicare Advantage Plan from a private insurer; which is called Part C.

This plan requires the same benefits as Original Medicare but may include additional benefits such as vision or dental care, or prescription drug coverage. Some plans offer $0 premiums - but have higher copays or deductibles. 

Since this offer comes from a private insurer, it’s best to have someone overlook and explain this option for you. You can have a preferred medical insurance broker from NV Silver Insurance do the work for you and show you different insurance plans. 

Medicare Supplement Insurance

Medicare Supplement Insurance (or Medigap), is a purchase plan that covers gaps in medicare costs. Examples include plans that cover all copays and coinsurance costs you would incur on Original Medicare. 

These plans vary. Some plans have high premiums with few expenses. Some have low premiums with less expenses than the latter. 

We at NV Silver recommend choosing a plan depending on how often you visit your doctor and whether your doctor visits have steep costs. 

If you think this is your best option, contact us and we can walk you through this option. 

Part D

This plan is optional - and is provided by private insurers. 

In Nevada, there’s 26 different types of Part D plans. Across the state, premiums range from $20 - $98 per month.

Similar to Medigap, you’ll have to find which plan is best for your prescription drug needs. Not all of these plans cover prescription drug costs.

In Nevada, you have more opportunities to switch prescription drug plans than you do other Medicare plans, and your insurer must notify you if they stop covering your prescribed drugs.

Talk To Your Insurance Provider

As Nevada’s preferred health insurance broker, we want to provide you with the right choice in Medicare

Medicare offerings can seem overwhelming. Not sure which plan fits works for you? Contact us by clicking here.

June 14th - 20th is International Men’s Health Week. It's the week leading up to Father's Day each year.

During this week, people around the globe encourage boys, men and their families to focus on men’s health and health policy.

 

Understanding Men’s Health

The overall goal of Men's International Health Week is to spread awareness to men all over the world.

Our goal at NV Silver Insurance is to teach men about preventable health issues, to schedule routine check-ups and encourage men to check-in with their healthcare insurance providers.

This week is also the perfect time to share our knowledge of health insurance options. As Nevada’s preferred medical insurance broker, we know how important it is to be prepared for any medical hurdles ahead.

 

How Men Should Protect Their Health

 

Preventing Problems Ahead

International doctors say maintaining a healthy lifestyle lowers risk of non-communicable disease. Eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and regular routine exercise are all important. 

One of the largest health risks to men is prostate cancer. Studies show eliminating smoking, drinking, and changing diet can help lower risk of prostate cancer in men.

But, before stepping into the doctor’s office for a check-up, it’s important to come fully prepared with a plan. Knowing your Nevada health insurance options will ensure your health won’t become a financial burden. 

 

Talk To Your Insurance Provider

As Nevada’s leading insurance broker, we recommend men take regular insurance advice and ask about medical treatment plans from your healthcare insurance provider.

There are many options available to you:

Each has different options. Not sure which plan fits your lifestyle? Contact us by clicking here. 

 

See Your Doctor Regularly

There could be more going on with your health that might go unnoticed by your friends and family. Seeking out professional medical help can help detect preventable diseases before they get worse.

Statistics show early detection and treatment of disease has been known to decrease men mortality rates on an international scale. 

Most men worry about going into the doctor’s office. A majority of that fear comes from their current financial situation.

NV Silver Insurance works with a variety of insurance companies to make sure you’re getting the fair and affordable coverage you need. Our partners and staff have been experts in health insurance and life insurance in Reno, NV for over 16 years. We have 35 years of experience in the insurance industry combined. 

 

Facts About Men’s Health

 

How YOU Can Spread Awareness

We at NV Silver continue to encourage men's health habits and ensure their health is insured.

Ways you can show your appreciation and encouragement during International Men’s Health Week include wearing a blue ribbon. This represents the fight against prostate cancer.

On Friday June 18th, people around the world wear blue to mark 'Wear Blue Day', which people and companies use as a tool to help fundraise for men's health.

 

If you want more information about your health options and ways you can protect the health of the men in your life, Contact us!

On March 11th 2021, President Joe Biden singed the American Rescue Plan Act into law. This $1.9 trillion package intends to combat public health and economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than $86 billion of that package is going directly to public health.

So, what does this mean for Nevadans?

 

Nevadans Insured by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) & Uninsured Nevadans

Nevada Health Link, the state's online health insurance marketplace, has plans to implement the ARPA subsidy. Which means, those who still have Obamacare under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are eligible for additional assistance. Those changes will begin starting May of 2021.

There is still a good portion of Nevadans who don't have individual health insurance. Doctors across the state say an estimated 256,000 Nevadans were uninsured as of January 1st of this year. The good news here is those who are uninsured can now enroll in health insurance under the Special Enrollment Period (SEP). The deadline for enrolling in a plan has been moved to August 15th of this year.

 

A Change In Subsidies

The other benefits of receiving this funding is the opportunity for a majority of Nevadans to receive subsidies for the first time. This includes Nevadans making over 400% of the federal poverty level, according to data.

The previous subsidies were initially positioned to limit costs of an insurance premium to 9.83 percent of household income, while the new, increased subsidies will reduce that cost to 8.5 percent of household income.

Another major change is there won't be a cap on subsidies that previously limited the subsidies to people making less than $51,000/yr , couples making less than $70,000/yr or a family of four making less than $110,000.

We're the Only Nevada Health Link Preferred Broker in Northern Nevada

If you're already insured through Nevada Health Link - you are now able to switch plans if you'd like.

Still not sure on what your options are? We are here to help!

We specialize in individual and family insurance options. Our team is here to walk you through it so you can find the best option for your healthcare needs. Our goal is make sure you receive the best coverage and, by working with NV Silver Insurance, we'll help you sleep better at night knowing you have reliable coverage during these unprecedented times. Contact us today!

April is National Minority Health Month and focuses on bringing awareness to the health disparities that affect racial and ethnic communities in the United States. It encourages health education and also early detection to prevent premature death and illness in these communities. This year’s theme is #VaccineReady to educate and encourage individuals to get the COVID 19 vaccine. Minorities have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID19 pandemic.  

Nevada Strong

Here in Nevada, Governor Sisolak officially declared April as Minority Health Month in Nevada and wrote in his declaration that “... the State of Nevada recognizes that the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted some communities and that creates an environment where COVID-related outcomes result in lingering chronic illnesses and negative non-health related social determinants…” and ended his proclamation with “Minority Health Month is a time for the State of Nevada to re-emphasize its commitment to addressing Racism as a Public Health Crisis”.  Nevada’s largest minority group according to the U.S. Census Bureau is the Hispanic or Latino population, which makes up 29.2% of Nevada’s population. Although Reno’s population is predominantly White, the Hispanic population is 24.7%.The Asian population makes up 6.35% and the black and African American population makes up 2.53% of Reno’s population. 

The Growth of the Reno Community

As Reno’s community continues to grow, so do the public health issues such as homelessness, substance abuse, but the largest public health issue currently is the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic. That's why it is important to know the facts when it comes to vaccination and make sure that those resources and tools are being shared and are easily accessible to minority communities. The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities has created the #VaccineReady social media campaign to spread vaccination knowledge and created social media toolkits that include informative messages and social media cards. They also have created a Minority Health Bingo Challenge for 2021 that is not only in English but also in Spanish. 

 

Although the Nevada Silver Health and Life Insurance Agency has been in business for 32 years, we have called 89502 our home for 16 years. We have seen the Reno community grow and become a mecca for diversity and inclusion. We are dedicated to helping those in the community, especially those in underrepresented communities, enroll in the best health insurance coverage they need for not only themselves but also for their families. Our agency does provide Spanish speaking services for those who English is not their first language. Contact us today to learn more about enrolling in the right health care plan. 

According to the American Public Health Association, “11.2 percent of people in Nevada do not have health insurance coverage, well above the national uninsured rate of 8.8 percent. This is the 8th highest uninsured rate in the country.”

This percentage is alarming given that we are still in the middle of a global pandemic.

This week is National Public Health Week, which focuses on educating the public about a variety of public health topics. Each day highlights a different topic ranging from advancing racial equity to elevating the essential and health workforce. 

These topics are very important for Nevada’s public health as we continue to fight the battle against not only COVID19 but also obesity and opioid addiction. Our great state is also made up of a number of rural communities that have difficulty acquiring great health care. 

Looking at the Numbers

The American Public Health Association releases state fact sheets that give statistics about the public health of every state. They release this information to not only inform the public but also for the public to take action. Here are the statistics they provided for the Silver State:

Sources: Trust for America’s Health, Investing in America’s Health; Trust for America’s Health, Prevention and Public Health Fund at Work in States; U.S. Census Bureau, 2015, 2016, and 2017 1-Year American Community Surveys; United Health Foundation, America’s Health Rankings; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Tobacco Control Program Funding.

 

Now that we know the stats, how do we take action? With President’s Biden Special Enrollment Period, Nevadans can apply for affordable health care and begin to live healthier lives. Healthcare shouldn’t be a luxury, it's a necessity that should be easy for people to receive.

NV Silver is Here to Help

John W Collier and Gina Aguerre have over three decades of experience in health and life insurance. They not only will help you find the best health care plan for you, but they will do it with care and ease. John and Gina have been serving the Reno community for over 32 years. They have expanded their reach to help those in other Northern Nevada communities, as well as in other states. NV Silver is the only Nevada Health Link Preferred Broker in Northern Nevada. They understand that health and life insurance can be difficult to understand, that’s why they take the time to review your options and make sure you truly understand what you’re enrolling in. If you’d like to learn more about your health and life insurance options, contact NV Silver today at 775-829-1221 or submit an inquiry form here.

John collier, LUTCF, FSS, CC
Fax: (775) 826-2516
NV License #2545207
Gina Espinal-aguerre
Fax: (775) 826-2516
NV License #17287151
Mary Lou Urrutia
Fax: (775) 826-2516
NV License #3590623
David Moncuse
Fax: (775) 826-2516
NV License #3589736
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